I am working on a project to find all the Messier objects this year. I want to take my time and look over each one. I am starting with the brighter open clusters. I am using binoculars and telescope and reasearching each one on the Internet. I am using an Orion XT10 as my main scope. I have the 25mm EP that came with the scope, along with a 2X barlow and a couple of shorter EPs. I live in an area with moderate light pollution. I can usually see stars to the 4th magnitude.

Here's my question. When I get to the fainter stuff, should I invest in a 35mm 2" EP, or will the pieces I am using work well enough? When I get to the nebula will I need a filter, or can I get by without one? If I get a filter will an 80A or 82A be useful or should I opt for something else? I'm not looking to spend anymore than I have to because I've already spent my yearly astronomy budget on other projects.

I think I'll update that post, but I don't know how to edit it. In the early morning I can often see stars to the 5th magnitude and once in awhile I can see the milky way, but usually not.